Specialised Procedures
Facet Joint Injections
Facet joint injections are a minimally invasive procedure that injects a local anesthetic and/or corticosteroid medication into the affected facet joint to reduce pain and inflammation. It is a short procedure that provides immediate relief, commonly used to treat arthritis, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and other spinal conditions.
Selective Nerve Root Injections (SNRIs)
Nerve Root Injections (SNRIs) are used to diagnose and treat nerve pain caused by compressed or irritated nerve roots in the spine. The procedure involves injecting a mixture of local anaesthetic and corticosteroid medication into the specific nerve root causing pain, providing both immediate pain relief and longer-term reduction of inflammation.
Epidural Injection
Epidural injections are a commonly used minimally invasive procedure to alleviate pain and inflammation caused by spinal conditions such as herniated discs and spinal stenosis. The procedure involves the injection of a mixture of local anaesthetic and corticosteroid medication into the epidural space guided by imaging techniques such as X-ray or fluoroscopy.
Rhizotomy
Rhizotomy, also known as radiofrequency ablation, is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic pain caused by the nerves that supply sensation to the facet joints in the spine. Rhizotomy is typically used for patients with chronic pain who have not responded well to other treatments and is not a cure for spinal conditions.
Occipital Nerve Block
The occipital nerve block is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat and diagnose pain and headaches caused by inflammation or irritation of the occipital nerves. The effectiveness can vary, and potential risks and complications exist, such as infection, bleeding, or nerve damage
Shoulder Injection
A shoulder injection is a medical procedure where medication is injected into the shoulder joint to relieve pain and inflammation caused by various shoulder conditions. Typically used when other non-surgical treatments have not provided adequate relief.
Knee Injection
A knee injection is a medical procedure in which medication is injected into the knee joint to relieve pain and inflammation caused by various knee conditions. These conditions can include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and knee injuries such as meniscus tears.
Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)
A medical procedure that involves implanting a small device under the skin to deliver electrical impulses to the spinal cord, which can help alleviate chronic pain. The device is controlled by a remote control and can be adjusted to target specific areas of pain. SCS is typically used to treat chronic pain in the back, legs, and arms, as well as conditions such as neuropathy, complex regional pain syndrome, and failed back surgery syndrome.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections
A medical treatment that involves injecting a concentration of a patient's own platelets into an area of the body that is experiencing pain or inflammation. The platelets contain growth factors that can help stimulate tissue repair and regeneration. PRP injections are commonly used to treat musculoskeletal injuries such as osteoarthritis, tendinitis, and ligament sprains.
Decades of experience, a legacy of care. Consultant Pain Specialist and Director of Anaesthesia at UPMC Whitfield Hospital
